Resources for Permit Holders Selected to Carry an Observer in Southeast Fisheries

Resource Links

Frequently Asked Questions-Southeast Fisheries Observer Program

Clarification of Mandatory Safety Exams for Commercial Fishing Vessels-Marine Safety Information Bulletin Number: 12-2015. (U.S. Coast Guard/NOAA Statement) This bulletin is documentation stating commercial fishers must have a decal issued within 2 years when required to carry a NOAA observer.

Paperwork Reduction Act Statement-States how the information collected by the Observer program will be used.

U.S. Coast Guard Examiner List-U.S. Coast Guard tool to assist commercial fishing vessel owners/operators prepare their fishing vessel prior to a Coast Guard safety examination. Select 'Find an Examiner' for your local examiner's contact information and to schedule a free safety examination.

Notice on Treatment of Observers-Office of Law Enforcement

Courtesy Information

Vessel Safety Checklist-What observers inspect and verify before departure. All equipment and operational details must be valid and compliant with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

FishSafeWest-Safety Requirements Checker, U.S. Coast Guard web app. FishSafeWest provides a resource for the Commercial Fishing Vessel Industry so that fishermen can double check and make sure they have all required safety equipment onboard to

1. Pass the USCG Safety Examination.
2. Carry an observer (equipment must be present, in-date, and stowed properly).

Contact

NOAA Fisheries' Southeast Fisheries Observer Program
Galveston Laboratory
4700 Avenue U
Galveston, TX 77551
Office Phone Number: (409) 255-0641

Email: [email protected]

Last updated by Southeast Fisheries Science Center on 08/21/2026

More Information

• Fisheries Statistics Division
• Southeast Fisheries Science Center